Book of 2 Chronicles - Chapter 13 - Verse 17

This verse from the Bible, found in 2 Chronicles 13:17, describes a battle between Abijah and his people against Jeroboam and the Israelites. The phrase "And Abijah and his people slew them with a great slaughter" signifies the intensity and severity of the battle, in which Abijah's army inflicted heavy casualties upon the Israelites. The verse goes on to state that five hundred thousand chosen men of Israel were slain in this conflict. This large number emphasizes the magnitude of the victory for Abijah and his forces. The account serves as a reminder of the brutal realities of warfare during biblical times and the fierce competition between rival kingdoms. It also highlights the importance of military strength and strategic leadership in ancient societies. Overall, this verse provides a vivid portrayal of a significant battle in Israel's history and the devastating consequences it had for those involved.

Looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, we see that Abijah, also known as Abijam, was the son of Rehoboam and the king of Judah. In this context, the battle described was the result of a conflict between Judah and Israel, specifically Jeroboam, the king of Israel. The verse highlights the victorious slaughter led by Abijah, where five hundred thousand chosen men of Israel were slain. This event illustrates the consequence of turning away from God and disobeying His commandments. The theological lesson to be drawn from this verse is the importance of remaining faithful to God and following His will, as disobedience can lead to destruction and defeat. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences that come from straying from God's path and the importance of seeking forgiveness and reconciliation with Him.